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TORONTO, Oct. 1, 2015 /CNW/ - A significant settlement was reached today at the Ontario Labour Relations Board for the wrongfully terminated employees of Gingrich Woodcraft, the custom cabinetry making factory in Devlin Ontario that was closed by its owners in August when workers at the factory voted to unionize and join Unifor. The owners had claimed their religious beliefs precluded them from working with a union.

"I am pleased to announce we've negotiated a settlement that includes a significant monetary compensation package for the Gingrich Woodcraft workers, and ensures excellent prospects for their reemployment" said Jerry Dias, Unifor's National President.

The Labour Board will also be issuing a declaration that the company's actions violated the Ontario Labour Relations Act.

"I'm glad this matter has come to a swift and positive resolution," said Dias. "This decision makes it very clear that the rights of workers to join a union are paramount. And Unifor will always stand up for workers' rights."

Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing more than 310,000 workers. It was formed Labour Day weekend 2013 when the Canadian Auto Workers and the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers union merged.

SOURCE Unifor

For further information: Sarah Lesniewski at sarah.lesniewski@unifor.org or (cell) 416-578-4293.